Aceh Province to Focus on Development Programs, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi delivers his remarks at the National Gathering of Sukma Bangsa School in Bireun Regency, Aceh Province, Saturday (22/2). (Photo by: PR / Oji).

Indonesia should shift the focus on the country’s development after Presidential Elections and Regional Elections were over, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has said.

“Aceh has the power due to its natural and human resources. I know this because I visited Lhokseumawe, Bener Meriah, and Central Aceh Regency in the 80s,” President Jokowi said in his remarks at the National Gathering of Sukma Bangsa School in Bireun Regency, Aceh Province, Saturday (22/2).

According to the President, all countries gave their appreciation to the traditional dance of Ratoh Jaroe from Aceh Province at the 2018 Asian Games opening ceremony, which was represented Acehnese culture.

“There are several positive cultures that Aceh has, including dynamic, tolerant, Islamic, and maritime,” he said.

Previously, Aceh Governor offered an apology to President Jokowi regarding last year’s Presidential Election voting in Aceh Province.

“I told the Governor not to misunderstand me. I really appreciate political rights that were exercised by all Aceh people. The important thing is that the elections ran successfully and safely,” the President said

On that occasion, the President said that he highly respects political rights of the Acehnese and asked Aceh people not to think that the President will not visit Aceh Province after the elections.

“Please, do not get me wrong. I really respect political rights, be it from any provinces and communities across the country,” the President added. (AIT / EN)

Translated by: Syarifah Aisyah
Reviewed by: M. Ersan Pamungkas